Getting Creative with Figs
What do you think of when I say, “figs”? If you answered, “Fig Newtons,” you’re missing out on the many delicious ways this tasty fruit can be enjoyed. It’s National Fig Week and the perfect time to explore this healthy and versatile fruit. Figs are terrific for snacking. They can be enjoyed dried or fresh and are a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. There are actually hundreds of varieties of figs and their color can range from white to purple-black. While figs make for great additions to baked goods because of their sweet flavor, don’t be afraid to try some other interesting ways to add them to your healthy diet.
Pizza may not be the first thing you think about when you think figs, but Proscuitto and Fig Pizza is delectable! This recipe is a take on the common appetizer of figs wrapped with Proscuitto. Fontina cheese, a Balsamic reduction and arugula are added to the whole wheat crust, making this a gourmet pizza you will make over and over.
This salad is perfect for the fall season! Roasted Onion, Squash and Fig Salad with Maple Mustard Balsamic Dressing uses dried figs in its recipe. The onion and butternut squash are roasted and then added to mixed greens, crumbled goat cheese, dried figs and chopped walnuts. The entire mix is then topped with an amazing dressing made from a combination of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, maple syrup, garlic and whole grain mustard. Lots of heart-healthy fat and fiber in this salad, which is hearty enough to make for a main meal!
Photo courtesy of yummybeet.com
Figs, like many fruits, are terrific when put up as a jam or preserves. This recipe for Fig Jam is simple, the only ingredients include figs, sugar, lemon juice, red wine and cloves. You can use this jam on toast or in baked goods.
Photo courtesty of deliciousshots.blogspot.com
Finally, Michael Marks, Your Produce Man, has an interesting way to add figs to your dinner menu–Figatoni! Yes, add dried figs to your pasta. He shows you how in this step-by-step video. Enjoy!
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